BASKETBALL – Bahraini basketball star Bayan Salman is hopeful that getting the opportunity to play Division One women’s basketball in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in the US will help inspire others in the kingdom to go after their dreams.
Salman has made national sporting history by signing on as a student-athlete with the Charleston Southern University Buccaneers’ women’s basketball team, becoming the first-ever women’s player from the kingdom – and likely the entire GCC – to accomplish this.
“If I am able to become one of the first Bahraini women to play and make an impact in Division One basketball, I hope it opens doors for the next generation and shows young girls back home that their goals are possible, no matter how ambitious they may seem,” Salman, who celebrated her 21st birthday yesterday, told the GDN.
“Making GCC basketball history is exciting, but for me it is also about creating opportunities for others.
“I want young athletes in Bahrain to see that they do not have to choose between academics and sport – they can pursue both and excel in both.”
Salman will be playing Buccaneers basketball while pursuing her Master of Business Administration degree at the South Carolina-based school.
She is planning to take some summer classes before beginning her programme in the fall semester starting at the end of August.
Salman is looking forward to making the most of her experience in the US, and is determined to represent the kingdom in the best way – showcasing Bahraini basketball among other elite women.
“Being given the chance to play NCAA Division One basketball is something I am incredibly proud of, not only for myself but for Bahrain as well,” Salman explained.
“I understand the responsibility that comes with representing my country on such a big stage. Every time I step onto the court, I want to show that Bahraini athletes can compete internationally and succeed at the highest levels.
“This opportunity means a lot more to me than just playing basketball at the next level. It represents years of hard work, sacrifices, and the support of everyone who believed in me throughout my journey.”
Salman – a feisty and sharp-shooting guard who can play both backcourt positions – is one of the kingdom’s top women’s basketball players. She has won multiple medals at various levels for Bahrain’s national teams in both five-on-five and 3x3 basketball.
“This is only the beginning of my journey,” she said.
“My goal is to continue developing as a player, represent Bahrain with pride, earn my degree, and ultimately pursue a professional basketball career while inspiring more young Bahraini girls to dream big and believe in themselves.”
patrick@gdnmedia.bh
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